The Charm of RWD Off-Road Buggies: Old-School Fun in the Dirt

When it comes to RC buggies, 4WD tends to dominate the modern scene with its sheer traction and performance. But ask any long-time hobbyist, and they’ll tell you there’s something special about RWD (rear-wheel drive) off-road buggies. They may not have the grip or stability of their 4WD cousins, but… Continue reading

On-Road Belt Drive 4WD: The TA08 Pro as a Benchmark

In the world of 1/10 on-road RC racing, belt-driven four-wheel-drive cars have earned a reputation for refinement, speed, and tunability. While shaft-driven cars such as the TT-series remain popular as entry points, racers who want to unlock the next level of performance often turn to belt-driven platforms. Among these, the… Continue reading

Turning a Tamiya TT-01 Into RWD – A Fun Experiment

The Tamiya TT-01 is one of those kits that just about every RC enthusiast has crossed paths with at some point. It’s simple, durable, affordable, and for many people, it was their first taste of on-road RC fun. Out of the box, it’s a 4WD touring car, but one of… Continue reading

TT01 rear gear diff case breakage

The Tamiya TT-01 rear gearbox loose problem is a common issue among the TT-01 chassis. This is when the rear gearbox housing aka differential case becomes loose, which can result in drivetrain instability, gear misalignment, or even stripped gears over time. The screws securing the gearbox halves may loosen over… Continue reading

Real motor oil on RC car gears?

Real motor oil is designed for fluid film lubrication in car engines at high temperatures. RC gears, especially in electric models, often require thicker, clingy lubrication like grease. Motor oil will sling off quickly due to centrifugal force, leaving gears unprotected. So the answer is NO.

Gear lapping

To lap RC car gears (i.e., smooth out the gear mesh by controlled wear), you need a safe, mildly abrasive compound that can polish without damaging. Toothpaste works for light break-in runs (1–2 minutes at low speed). Follow these steps: Apply thin layer of compound to gear teeth. Run the… Continue reading